Women’s Equality Day was observed in several amphibious ships to remember the struggles and sacrifices of women to gain the right to vote.

In USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), an ice cream social was hosted on Aug. 24 on the ship’s mess decks. NAVADMIN 251/12 announced the observance of Women’s Equality Day to be Aug. 26, the day that commemorates the 1920 passage of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution granting women the right to vote.

“It is important for us to remember the struggles and sacrifices made by those who came before us,” said Chief Legalman (AW/SW) Katrina Hall, TR Diversity Team’s senior enlisted advisor. “This is a fun way of reflecting on everything women have been through and how far we have come while educating our crew at the same time.”

Women’s Equality Day was also observed in the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and in USS New York (LPD 21) on Aug. 26.

USS New York had put together an educational slideshow that was broadcasted throughout the ship, as well as hosted a cake-cutting ceremony and a special dinner with a menu that was voted on by the female crew members.

The Navy began accepting women in the Navy Nurse Corps in 1908, twelve years before the 19th Amendment was signed. On June 12, 1948, the Women’s Armed Service Integration Act was passed, allowing women a permanent status in the armed services.

To these days, the Navy continues to provide new career and advancement opportunities to women who want to serve the country. This year, over 14,000 slots throughout the Department of Defense had been opened for women to give them the opportunity to show off their talents, compete for key assignments, and excel and serve in senior ranks.